The benefits of jumping and plyometric exercise

As children, we jump effortlessly. As adults, we often lose the ability to jump with ease.

Perfecting the art of jumping adds some bounce to a workout and can make even the most sedentary person more athletic in their day-to-day routine, says Scott Caulfield, the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the National Strength and Conditioning Association in Colorado Springs, Colo.

“Jumping falls into a type of exercise we call plyometrics,” Mr. Caulfield says. “These exercises involve quicker, shorter motions that stimulate the stretch reflex. That reflex is responsible for explosive movement, like an outfielder reacting to a fly ball.”